How to Rate SUVs
A sport utility vehicle is a larger, truck-like automobile that has an enclosed passenger and cargo area where a truck bed would normally be. Many SUV models come with extra ground wheel clearance and four-wheel drive to help drivers through difficult terrain during off-road travel. SUVs initially were developed to transport soldiers in a more efficient manner. Today's SUVs are much more luxurious, comfortable and sophisticated.
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Instructions
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Rate SUVs by their type. There are several sub-types of SUVs on the market, including compact, midsize, large, hybrid, crossover and off-road. Compact SUVs generally are less expensive than other types and offer less passenger and cargo room. As the name implies, midsize SUVs offer passenger and cargo space in between the room provided by compact and large models. Large models offer the highest amount of cargo and passenger space. Hybrid SUVs are categorized by their fuel-efficient engines, which run on both traditional fuel and an electric battery in the engine. Crossover SUVs have uni-body construction on a car-based frame. They ride similar to cars but look similar to a SUV or wagon and generally are not equipped to ride off road. Off-road SUVs are equipped to drive on unpaved roads and paths. These vehicles often have a more durable suspension or higher ground clearance than other SUVs.
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Rate the SUVs by their interior comforts and options. SUVs offer a wide variety of interior options. SUV buyers choose a type of covering for the seating, whether they want navigational capabilities included, and whether the SUV should be equipped with an off-road suspension or steering package, for example.
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Compare the manufacturer suggested retail price of the SUV. Prices for SUVs differ depending on the options you include and whether you compare different types of SUVs. Generally, SUVs of a similar type cost a similar amount. For example, the 2011 BMW X3 has a manufactuer suggested retail price of $36,750, while the price for a 2011 Infiniti EX35 is $36,350 and the price for a 2011 Lexus RX350 is $37,975.
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Compare the engines of the SUVs. In general, most SUVs come equipped with either a six-cylinder or eight-cylinder engine. However, each engine differs on such characteristics as the amount of horsepower they can produce and the amount of liter displacement each has. The differences in engines can result in increased or decreased fuel costs, maintenance costs and driving power.
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References
- Photo Credit suv car cadillac escalade on the road image by alma_sacra from Fotolia.com
